Recovery Rowan County Hosts Judge Executive Harry Clark for Recovery Month Proclamation

Rowan County Judge Executive Harry Clark has officially declared September 2025 as Recovery Month in Rowan County. The announcement was made Tuesday, September 2, during a community event hosted by Recovery Rowan County, the county’s Recovery Community Organization (RCO).

Recovery Rowan County was formed with support from the Northeast Kentucky Substance Use Response Coalition, which helped establish the RCO through grant funding. Represented by Executive Director Kaylah Patton, the organization is now an active member of the Coalition, working to provide resources, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by substance use disorder.

Leaders from Recovery Rowan County and the Coalition noted that this designation is more than symbolic—it helps raise awareness about available resources and reduces stigma surrounding recovery.

“Recovery is a journey, and no one should have to walk it alone,” said a Coalition Director KaSandra Hanshaw. “By recognizing National Recovery Month, our community is saying we believe in recovery and we believe in the people working every day to achieve it.”

The proclamation issued by Judge Executive Clark reads as follows:

"WHEREAS, September is recognized nationally as Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the gains made by those in recovery from substance use and mental health disorders, and to highlight the strength and resilience of individuals who are living their lives in recovery; and

"WHEREAS, in Rowan County, we recognize that recovery is possible for everyone, and we commend those who have overcome the challenges of addiction and mental health struggles to lead fulfilling, productive lives; and

"WHEREAS, Recovery Month serves as an opportunity to promote and support evidence-based treatment, recovery practices, and peer support networks that are essential to the well-being of individuals and the community as a whole; and

"WHEREAS, the road to recovery is a personal and often difficult journey, but one that is achievable with the support of family, friends, treatment providers, and community resources; and

"WHEREAS, by increasing public awareness and reducing the stigma associated with addiction and mental health disorders, Rowan County is committed to creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help and access the resources they need to acheieve and sustain long-term recovery; and

"WHEREAS, we honor and stand with those in our community who are in recovery, celebrate their accomplishments, and reaffirm our commitment to supporting all those who are working toward recovery, as well as the loved ones who support them;

"NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Harry T. Clark, Rowan County Judge/Executive, do hereby proclaim the month of September, 2025, to be: RECOVERY MONTH, and commend this observance to the citizens of Rowan County."